Walker Not Entering Race
San Andreas, CA – Calaveras County Undersheriff Michael Walker is taking his name off the list of possible successors to Dennis Downum.
Walker says in a statement, "The next Sheriff will be tasked by County budget decisions with dismantling basic public safety functions. It is apparent that the Department will not be structured or financed to support the vision of public safety that I hold. Reductions in staffing and an increase in demand for services have led to a tipping point in what the public expects and the reality of what can be delivered. I will not make promises that cannot be kept just to be Sheriff."
Walker has spent the past 35 years in the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Department. Walker has informed Sheriff Downum that he plans to resign effective August 13, 2010.
Walker says he is "deeply touched and honored" that people have recently encouraged him to run for Sheriff, but adds he will not seek the office.
Written by bjhansen@mlode.com.
